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Understanding The Basics Of An Epitaph
When making final arrangements for someone who has passed away, there are a lot of details that require attention. These duties generally fall to family members of the deceased and may be handled by a single person, or the responsibilities may be distributed to make it easier. One such task is writing an appropriate epitaph for the gravestone.
This means that they will create a short sentiment, statement, poem, verse or phrase that will be engraved on the headstone as a lasting testament. The purpose is to give others a brief glance into the individual it represents. These inscriptions take many forms, usually depending on the personality and what the individual's life was like or the emotional state of the writer.
Practically every commemorative plaque or stone will bear information identifying the person. In the very least, this includes their name and typically a date for their birth and their death. While some opt to leave it at that, others choose to also add something extra like a sentiment, statement or further details about their life.
These additional statements are quite often short sentiments about how much the individual will be missed, how special they were or wishes for a peaceful afterlife. They might list their familial positions such as child, sibling, parent or spouse, or it may be a record of their time in the military or other organization. Spiritual scripture is also very commonly used.
Some individuals choose to write their own inscription prior to their death. This allows them to ensure that they get exactly what they want on their stone and gives them the freedom to be creative. Those with a keen sense of humor often take this opportunity to make a witty final remark or write an entertaining remark that will bring smiles to visitors for years to come.
Another approach many people take when composing their inscription is to leave a final bit of advice to those who read their marker. They may warn against taking life for granted or suggest that the living make the most of every moment. There are no limitations as to what one might choose to place on their stone.
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